English football giants to clash in Edinburgh amid growing tension around URC final venue
English Premier League sides Newcastle United and Everton will play a pre-season friendly at Edinburgh’s Murrayfield Stadium this summer.
Scottish Rugby confirmed the fixture will take place on Wednesday, August 12, adding to a busy schedule of events at the 67,000 plus capacity arena over the summer. The home of Scottish Rugby is also set to host concerts by Zach Bryan, Luke Combs and Bon Jovi as well as the Rugby Nations Championship tie between the Scotland men’s national team and Fiji.
Newcastle United and Everton set for Murrayfield pre-season friendly
Tickets for the football friendly between the two English clubs go on general sale next week while Scotland Supporters Club Plus members will have access to a pre-sale window. Hospitality packages are also set to be offered.
“I am delighted to welcome Newcastle United and Everton to our stadium for the first time,” said Scottish Rugby’s Director of Stadium Development & Operations Mark Laidlaw. “This match adds to an already exciting summer of events at Scottish Gas Murrayfield.
“Taking place during The Edinburgh Festival, it will further add to the atmosphere across the city, and we hope it encourages even more visitors to experience everything Edinburgh has to offer during such a vibrant period. As with all our events, we are looking forward to working closely with our key partners, including the City of Edinburgh Council, to help deliver a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.”
The respective head coaches of both teams also commented on the news. Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe said: “An exciting test against Premier League opposition at a historic venue like Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium will play an important part in our pre-season preparations.
“I’m sure our fans will bring a special atmosphere to Edinburgh for a fantastic summer away day, giving the players a massive lift as we build towards the new campaign.”
Everton gaffer David Moyes, a proud Scotsman who was born and raised in Glasgow and came through the ranks at Celtic, added: “Facing Newcastle United at Scottish Gas Murrayfield gives us a valuable opportunity to test ourselves against Premier League opposition as part of our preparations for the new season. Pre-season is an important period for the players and staff, and a fixture like this, in one of the biggest stadiums in the country, will help us continue building towards the start of the campaign.
“Everton has always had a strong connection with Scotland, and we know how well our supporters travel, not just from Merseyside but from across the country. Edinburgh is a fantastic city and this fixture gives Evertonians the chance to come together, enjoy the occasion and get behind the team in what should be a really good day for everyone connected with the Club.”